معرفی
Adam Jensen is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Nebraska-Kearney (UNK), where he has been a faculty member since 2014. He holds a Ph.D. in Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences from the University of Colorado-Boulder and has held postdoctoral positions at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and Wesleyan University. He is actively involved in research, teaching, and public outreach, including regular planetarium shows.
Education:
- Ph.D., Astrophysical & Planetary Sciences, University of Colorado-Boulder, 2007
- M.Sc., Astrophysical & Planetary Sciences, University of Colorado-Boulder, 2004
- B.Sc., Physics (Minor: Mathematics), University of Nebraska-Omaha, 2001
- B.Sc., Computer Science, University of Nebraska-Omaha, 2001
Dr. Jensen's research focuses on observational astronomy, particularly absorption spectroscopy of exoplanetary atmospheres and the interstellar medium. His work centers on hydrogen alpha absorption in hot Jupiters and atomic gas-phase abundances in the ISM. He has pioneered the detection of H-alpha in exoplanet atmospheres, with the first such detection in 2012. His research leverages data from major observatories including the Hubble Space Telescope, Keck, and Hobby-Eberly Telescope. He also explores Kepler data for transiting exoplanets and ISM composition.
The recent publications of Dr. Jensen highlight a strong focus on time-resolved spectroscopic studies of exoplanet atmospheres, particularly HD 189733b and WASP-12b. The dominant themes include H-alpha absorption, atmospheric variability, stellar activity contamination, and transmission spectroscopy. His work bridges observational astrophysics and planetary science, with an emphasis on characterizing exoplanet environments and understanding atmospheric escape mechanisms.
Professional Affiliations and Activities:
- Member, NASA’s NExSS (Nexus for Exoplanet Systems Science) Research Consortium
- Regular presenter at UNK planetarium (“Astro Fridays”)
Dr. Jensen has advanced through the academic ranks at UNK from Assistant Professor (2014–2018) to Associate Professor (2018–2023) and is currently Professor. He teaches a wide range of physics and astronomy courses, emphasizing problem-solving and student engagement. While no specific grants are listed, his access to major telescopes and participation in NASA-affiliated research suggest significant extramural support. He has mentored students through research collaborations, though no formal advisees are named. His lab or research group focuses on data analysis from space- and ground-based observatories, contributing to the broader understanding of exoplanet habitability and ISM evolution.
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